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My FIGHT with PD: A Neurologist with Parkinson's Disease
A Doctor Diagnosed. A Life Redefined. A Battle Reimagined.
"I could feel Parkinson's disease creeping up on me."
With those words, Dr. David Blacker, a respected neurologist, stepped into an unexpected dual both physician and patient.
In this candid and inspiring memoir, he chronicles the years following his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease-a journey marked not only by struggle, but by surprising triumphs. From reshaping his career to forging unlikely partnerships, including one with a former national boxing champion, his story reveals how adversity can lead to transformation.
With insight from both sides of the medical divide, David shares hard-won wisdom on physical resilience, emotional strength, and the power of human connection. Together with his wife Kirsten, he pioneers yoga and fitness programs that are now changing lives across the PD community.
Raw, reflective, and ultimately hopeful, My FIGHT with PD is more than a memoir - it's a guide for living fully in the face of uncertainty, and a powerful message for patients and practitioners alike.
Living, Learning, and Leading with Parkinson's Disease
"I could feel Parkinson's disease creeping up on me."
With those words, Dr. David Blacker, a respected neurologist, stepped into an unexpected dual both physician and patient.
In this candid and inspiring memoir, he chronicles the years following his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease-a journey marked not only by struggle, but by surprising triumphs. From reshaping his career to forging unlikely partnerships, including one with a former national boxing champion, his story reveals how adversity can lead to transformation.
With insight from both sides of the medical divide, David shares hard-won wisdom on physical resilience, emotional strength, and the power of human connection. Together with his wife Kirsten, he pioneers yoga and fitness programs that are now changing lives across the PD community.
Raw, reflective, and ultimately hopeful, My FIGHT with PD is more than a memoir - it's a guide for living fully in the face of uncertainty, and a powerful message for patients and practitioners alike.
Living, Learning, and Leading with Parkinson's Disease
136 pages, Paperback
Published August 31, 2025
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4 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
November 1, 2025
David Blacker’s “My FIGHT with PD” is a beautifully written memoir that dives deep into the realities of living with Parkinson's Disease (among other life challenges). From the very beginning, David draws readers into his personal journey with honesty, vulnerability and some humorous self deprecation. As a nurse, I particularly enjoyed this read, being able to relate to some of the nuances of the Australian medical system and having witnessed many interactions (good and bad) between medical professional and patient. It is a helpful reminder for us all, to be mindful of the whole person behind the diagnosis.
The unfortunate irony of a neurologist being diagnosed with a neurological condition was both inspiring and confronting. I believe as David states in his book, it puts him in quite a unique position, neither fully patient nor physician, but able to see the challenges from both sides.
I particularly enjoyed the part where David talks about a holistic approach to treating Parkinson’s.
The importance of maintaining a positive outlook and keeping active is just as necessary as taking prescribed medications.
I highly recommend this book, to anyone seeking insight, motivation or a deeper understanding of what living with PD truly entails. It left me with a feeling of optimism about the future of Parkinson’s.
David, I hope you keep golfing for many years to come.
Kirsten, I look forward to your version of the story in coming years.
The unfortunate irony of a neurologist being diagnosed with a neurological condition was both inspiring and confronting. I believe as David states in his book, it puts him in quite a unique position, neither fully patient nor physician, but able to see the challenges from both sides.
I particularly enjoyed the part where David talks about a holistic approach to treating Parkinson’s.
The importance of maintaining a positive outlook and keeping active is just as necessary as taking prescribed medications.
I highly recommend this book, to anyone seeking insight, motivation or a deeper understanding of what living with PD truly entails. It left me with a feeling of optimism about the future of Parkinson’s.
David, I hope you keep golfing for many years to come.
Kirsten, I look forward to your version of the story in coming years.
September 24, 2025
A frank, honest and at times raw account of a neurologist's own experience of living with Parkinsons. Many of the emotions and frustrations described in the book will resonate with people with PD and their carers. But in addition, we see how David, supported by his wife Kirsten, creatively leverages his medical and research expertise, his determination and remarkable work ethic to help improve services for those with PD. It is an inspirational journey.
February 1, 2026
A very interesting book about the author's experience with Parkinson's Disease. I learned a lot from it.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews